Learning is a lifelong journey that begins at birth and continues until our final breath. Much like building a house, education requires a strong foundation. The early years are the most formative and vulnerable stage of life, and the experiences children have during this period shape the adults they will become. As the saying goes, “if the foundation be destroyed, even the righteous can do nothing.” Early childhood education is therefore critical, as children absorb lessons not only from formal instruction but also from family, educators, community, and environment.

Children are naturally curious and constantly learning from every interaction. Two perspectives exist: one sees children as passive recipients of knowledge, while the other views them as active participants in their own learning. The latter aligns with inquiry‑based learning, where curiosity drives exploration and discovery. When children investigate problems and find solutions independently, they gain experience and confidence. As Berk (2017) notes, children establish cause‑and‑effect relationships by repeating actions and observing outcomes. This active engagement fosters resilience and deeper understanding.

The responsibility of early childhood educators is not to dictate learning but to facilitate it. Educators must create conditions that channel curiosity, encourage independence, and provide guidance. This philosophy reflects Piaget’s discovery learning theory, which emphasizes learning through interaction with the environment. Overloading children with rigid instruction risks suppressing their natural abilities. Instead, educators should act as mentors, classroom managers, and partners in learning, adapting to each child’s interests and needs.

A child’s surroundings play a vital role in development. The physical environment—such as spacious, well‑lit classrooms with hands‑on tools—supports exploration and engagement. Equally important is the emotional environment, which provides safety, encouragement, and positive relationships. Outdoor spaces further enrich learning by allowing children to follow their curiosity, apply knowledge practically, and develop independence. Environments that integrate nature and play promote creativity, resilience, and holistic growth.

Families are a child’s first teachers, shaping values, beliefs, and emotional development. Parenting styles and home dynamics directly influence confidence, motivation, and self‑regulation. A nurturing family environment fosters harmony and self‑esteem, while toxic settings can hinder growth. Communities also play a crucial role, offering collective support and cultural influence. As the Nigerian saying goes, “two eyes gave life to a child, and a thousand eyes watch him grow.” This highlights the shared responsibility of families and communities in raising children.

At the heart of effective early childhood education is a child‑centered approach. Children are inherently curious, creative, and resilient. They learn by observing, experimenting, and persisting—much like how they teach themselves to walk. Families provide the initial foundation, while educators act as facilitators and partners in learning. Nature and community environments further enrich this process, offering opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Child development is shaped by four interconnected domains: family, educators, environment, and community. Children thrive when these domains work together to create supportive, engaging, and nurturing conditions. As Jess Lair reminds us, “Children are people to be unfolded, not objects to be shaped.” Every child possesses unique abilities and potential, and it is the collective responsibility of families, educators, and communities to provide the foundation that allows them to flourish

 

References

Berk, L. E. (2017). Development through the lifespan. Pearson. 

Stipek, D. J. (2001). Motivation to learn: Integrating theory and practice. Pearson College